Rotary News

Edited by James Escamilla

President Judy Moore called the meeting to order.  Invocation by Dick Hodgman and Kristen Chesak gave the Art news. John Dillworth and Michael Brown led us in song "God Bless America"

Visiting Rotarians:

Dick Weaver; Carol Holmes; Jeannie Brandenberger; Jim Hendrick; Betty Lee Ongley; Cindy Carter

Guests:

Pam Kingery introduced Brooke NobisBuys; Jennifer Lang introduced Lori Zoscsak; Jack Hopkins introduced Ann Fergeman; Kathleen Tosco introduced Kelly Duggen and Cheryl Blaylock; Bob Kent introduced Don Ryan; Chris Shook introduced Brian Arra.  Wes Freeland introduced Peter Battani; Dale Hein introduced Rob Moreland; Jennifer Lang introduced Cynthia Hernandez.

Announcements:

Michael Brown received his Blue badge.  Jim Holtgreive reported that $14,800 was collected for the Salvation Army, the goal was $12,000. 

92 people have signed up for the WMU Basketball night on January 22.  There is block of 100 tickets that was bought.  You may pick up tickets at next weeks Rotary meeting.

Steve Kreider discussed Kalamazoo Rotary $1,000 contribution to Junior Achievement's new program at Phoenix High School.  Contribution Committee purchased books for young children for Doctors offices, etc.

Lisa Godfrey has updated the Bylaws and they will be on the website for Rotarians to review and a final approval by membership will be forthcoming.

Program:

Jim Kilway introduced Dr. Art James.  Black and White disparity in Kalamazoo County, infant mortality, adolescent birth and adolescent sexually transmitted infection rates in Kalamazoo County have gotten attention for high numbers and have received over $6 million for help.  Quality of life in Kalamazoo is worse for blacks than whites.  It is not biological issue but a social problem causing the deaths of babies.

Racism in disparity between black and white in Kalamazoo is higher than other areas.  Kalamazoo has an advantage in being small enough to pin point the cause and location so efforts can be directed to improve.  Hispanic disparity is closer to whites than black.